MP Graham Brady and a surgeon who was recently stabbed outside the mosque in Hale met at Altrincham's ground on Saturday, for the club's ‘Fans for Diversity’ match.

Altrincham FC was picked as one of only four clubs nationally to showcase the work they have been doing to encourage greater inclusion and diversity in football.

The club has been reaching out to all sections of the local community and, prior to the match, ran a number of activities including face-painting provided by Art with a Heart, a primary school art competition, and live music in the sports hall provided by Trafford Pride.

Wythenshawe Hospital surgeon Mr Kurdy and Altrincham and Sale West MP Mr Brady were both supporting the initiative.

Mr Brady said: ‘I was delighted to see Nasser Kurdy and I am pleased to see that he has recovered well.

"In fact he was back at work operating on his patients the next day.

"The event was a great success and really showcased Altrincham’s community spirit.

"The game was very entertaining and Altrincham beat Rushall Olympic 4-0."

Mr Kurdy, from Hale Barns, touched the hearts of many people when he spoke after the incident at the mosque on September 24 about his forgiveness, and made a plea for everyone to unite.

Altrincham's players wore a special one-off ‘Fans for Diversity’ kit for the game.

The Board of Altrincham Football Club has formally signed up to a 'Promise', taking the form of a large printed graphic stating the club’s commitment to become the leading non-league football club for inclusion and diversity.